Russia and Ukraine exchanged accusations on Monday over a series of overnight strikes that left casualties and damaged civilian infrastructure on both sides of the conflict. The latest escalation comes amid stalled diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire.
Crimea Attack Claims
Crimea's regional head Sergei Aksyonov blamed Ukrainian forces for a drone strike near the settlement of Foros, which damaged a local sanatorium and school. Oleg Kryuchkov, an advisor to Aksyonov, reported that a security guard was injured and critical facilities were destroyed. The Russian Defense Ministry described the incident as a "terrorist strike" targeting non-military areas.
Ukraine's Counterclaims
Kyiv officials accused Russian forces of launching 46 air strikes across Ukraine, including an attack on Zaporizhzhia that killed three people and injured two. Regional military administration head Ivan Fedorov stated that at least five bombs were dropped on the southern city, escalating civilian risks.
Diplomatic Stalemate
The violence follows high-profile talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin last month, during which Trump suggested Crimea would remain under Russian control in any peace deal. Subsequent discussions with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy have yet to yield progress toward a truce.
